Boston Nature Center & Wildlife Sanctuary

Boston Nature Center & Wildlife Sanctuary - 67-Acre Mass Audubon Refuge in Mattapan

67-acre Mass Audubon wildlife refuge in Mattapan, opened in 2002 on the former Boston State Hospital grounds. Trails and boardwalks traverse meadows and wetlands, with 150+ species of birds, 40+ species of butterflies, and 350+ species of plants documented on site.

Programs for Kids

Year-round nature programming for kids ages 0-17. Programs include:
- Pathways to Nature Preschool (nature-based preschool)
- Vacation Week Programs during school breaks
- Day Camp summer programs
- Family Fun and Family Birding sessions
- Composting 101 family workshops

What's Included

• George Robert White Environmental Conservation Center building
• 67 acres of trails, boardwalks, meadows, wetlands
• Educators trained by Mass Audubon
• Member program registration discounts

Experience

South Boston and Dorchester area families use the sanctuary for school-break day camps and seasonal nature programs. The Mattapan location keeps a full nature refuge within Boston city limits, accessible without leaving the city.